When is Costa Rican Independence Day?
This public holiday is Costa Rica's National Day and is celebrated on September 15th. In a move intended to rejuvenate the tourism sector after the COVID-19 pandemic, this holiday has been moved to the following Monday from 2020 onwards.
Independence Day in Costa Rica commemorates the independence of the Central American provinces from Spanish rule in 1821.
History of Costa Rican Independence Day
Costa Rica means 'coast of riches', though it is not clear if it was Christopher Columbus who coined the name when he reached the region on his fourth and last voyage in 1502, or if it was or the conquistador Gil González Dávila, who landed on the west coast in 1522.
Either way, the promise of gold in this coast of riches led to Spanish conquest and Costa Rica became part of the Kingdom of Guatemala, which also included the present-day nations of Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, and the Mexican state of Chiapas.
Spain had been weakened by its involvement in the Peninsular War in Europe and local juntas had been created as local Spanish had revolted against the rule of King Joseph, Napoleon's brother who had been installed as ruler of Spain by the French.
This taste for independent rule persisted after King Ferdinand came to the Spanish throne and on September 15th 1821, the Act of Independence of Central America was declared by the Province of Guatemala.
Following independence and despite opposition from El Salvador, the regions became part of the Mexican Empire, until they ceded to become the Federal Republic of Central America in 1823.
Guide to Costa Rica Independence Day Celebrations
Costa Rica’s Independence Day celebrations begin on September 14th, leading into the main festivities on September 15th. Across the nation, towns and cities come alive with parades, lantern processions, music, and traditional food.
September 14th – Lantern Processions and Torch Arrival
The celebrations kick off on the evening of the 14th with the Desfile de Faroles (Lantern Parade).
Time: Around 6 p.m.
Where: Streets throughout the country, especially in San José.
What to Expect: Children carry glowing paper lanterns shaped like houses, ox carts, and national symbols. Before the parade, civic ceremonies take place, honoring the country’s independence.
Another key event is the arrival of the Torch of Liberty, which begins its journey in Guatemala and travels through Central America.
Costa Rica’s Highlight: The torch passes through various towns and reaches Cartago by nightfall, where large crowds gather to witness its arrival.
In La Fortuna, the central park is beautifully decorated with flags and banners, creating a festive backdrop for the evening’s events.
September 15th – Independence Day Parades and Festivals
The morning of September 15th is filled with vibrant parades, cultural performances, and patriotic ceremonies across the country.
San José
Main Parade: Starts at 8 a.m. from Parque Central.
Participants: School marching bands, dancers in traditional ox cart-inspired costumes, and flag bearers.
Route: Streets from Calle 15 to 23 and Avenida 0 to 7 are closed for the parade.
Traffic Note: Blocks around Parque Nacional are shut down from 5 a.m. to manage ceremonies and the torch relay, with police directing traffic.
Other Key Celebrations
Alajuela: Parade and festivities featuring folk dances, poetry readings, and music.
Belén (Heredia): A community festival at San Antonio Sports Plaza, starting in the morning with local performers and musicians.
Heredia: Student-led parades and cultural events throughout the city.
Liberia: Central town celebrations highlighting local history and traditions.
Cartago: The dramatic conclusion of the Torch of Liberty journey.
Quepos: Beachfront gatherings with music and dancing.
Monteverde: Community parade, flag-raising ceremony, and patriotic activities.
Tamarindo: Coastal festivities showcasing local culture.
Guanacaste Province: A blend of historical reenactments, folk dances, and traditional music.
Pérez Zeledón: Prado Fest runs over both days, offering live performances and family-friendly entertainment.
Oreamuno: Smaller, more solemn events with local music groups like SINEM performing.
